Indonesia and Australia have commenced the Keris Woomera 26 joint military exercise in Banyuwangi, East Java, to bolster their defense and security collaboration. Running from October 12 to 20, the exercise involves approximately 1,235 personnel from the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and 1,000 personnel from the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
Australian Joint Operations Commander Vice Admiral Justin Jones highlighted the exercise as a testament to the enduring partnership between the two nations, emphasizing their mutual trust and cooperation. He noted that Indonesia is a vital and lasting ally for Australia, with the drills marking Australia’s most extensive overseas military training event for the year.
The exercise includes various military operations such as amphibious landings, live-fire drills, and coordinated maritime maneuvers involving the navies of both countries. The primary objectives are to enhance joint operational capabilities, tackle regional deployment challenges, and reinforce deterrence against military coercion in the Indo-Pacific region.
The Australian military has deployed several assets for the exercise, including the amphibious ship HMAS Choules, HMAS Perth, and HMAS Stalwart, as well as C-130J Hercules aircraft, PC-21 aircraft, M777 howitzers, and HIMARS launchers. Indonesia has contributed a Diponegoro-class corvette, artillery, multiple-launch rocket systems, Bell 412 and Panther helicopters, and Super Tucano aircraft.
First held in 2024, the Keris Woomera exercise takes place biennially, providing a platform for Indonesia and Australia to improve military coordination and strengthen regional security cooperation.